Craniocervical fusion surgery is a major step for some patients with craniocervical instability (CCI). A Patient’s Guide to Craniocervical Fusion Surgery turns complex medical and surgical details into clear, easy-to-understand guidance for patients, caregivers, and families. Based on more than 130 reliable medical references, this book helps readers feel prepared, supported, and confident through every stage of the surgical journey.
Inside Book Two you’ll find:
Chapter 1: How to prepare for surgery including bone health, nutrition, supplements, pre-op testing, medication management, and planning your home and hospital setup.
Chapter 2: What happens during craniocervical fusion surgery explained step-by-step, covering bone grafting, healing, benefits, risks, and possible complications.
Chapter 3: What to expect during your hospital stay from pain and sleep management to brace and wound care, safe movement, and caregiver support.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: PREPARING FOR SURGERY 1
Introduction 2
Bone Health Preparation 4
Major Risks to Address Before Surgery According to the Experts 6
Diet and Supplements for Preoperative Health 7
Tests to Consider Pre-Surgery 11
Early Medication Management for Optimal Surgical Outcomes 17
Smoking, THC (Cannabis) & Alcohol Cessation 18
Preparing A Patient’s Home for Post-Op Recovery 19
Preparing Months Ahead for the Hospital Stay 28
Considering Medical Alert Jewelry 32
CHAPTER 2: CRANIOCERVICAL FUSION SURGERY 34
Introduction 35
Craniocervical Fusion Surgical Procedure 36
Hospital Protocols for Patient Care 38
The Important Role of Bone Grafting in Spinal Fusion 51
Bone Healing Enhancement Possibilities 59
Therapeutic Bone Healing Devices 63
Medications That Help or Hinder Healing 66
CCF Surgery Benefits 69
CCF Surgery Risks & Complications 74
Comorbidities Affecting Recovery 97
Permanent Neck Movement Restrictions 97
CHAPTER 3: POST-SURGERY HOSPITAL STAY 100
Post-Operative Hospital Stay 101
Caregiver Role in Surgery Recovery 102
Urgent Care Symptom Monitoring 104
The First Stage of Bone Healing After Surgery 105
Symptoms After Surgery 106
Neck Brace Guidelines 110
Wound Care & Infection Prevention 113
The Critical Role of Sleep 114
Foods and Supplements to Promote Healing and Bone Fusion 123
Activities of Daily Living & Posture Management – Hospital Stay 126
Discharge from Hospital 129
REFERENCES 137